Electric vehicle acceptance grows slowly
One of the impending jokes of the current driving season is that the billboards advertising the price of gas will become calendars. It is now no longer difficult to imagine the numbers “2.022” next to the word “Unleaded” as British Columbians fill up their tanks.
The current state of affairs might be leading drivers to consider the purchase of an electric vehicle.
Research Co. and Glacier Media have been tracking the perceptions of residents and drivers or the past few years.
In 2022, as our usual habits of commutes and trips have returned, the numbers have moved slightly.
There is a bit of growth when British Columbians are asked about specific actions. The provincial government has committed to ensure that, by 2040, all light-duty cars and trucks sold in the province will be “zero emission.” More than seven in 10 British Columbians (73%, up three points since 2021) agree with this aspiration.
British Columbians aged 18 to 34 are more likely to endorse this policy goal (78%) than their counterparts aged 35 to 54 (75%) and 55 and over (69%).
Regionally, the notion of a “zero emission” province 18 years from now is popular in Metro Vancouver (76%), the Fraser Valley (73%), southern B.C. (72%) and on Vancouver Island (70%). The numbers drop in northern B.C. (55%).
The aspiration continues to be regarded as achievable by most residents. In 2019, 49% of British Columbians said that exclusively selling “zero emission” light-duty cars and trucks by 2040 was achievable. In 2021, the numbers rose slightly to 51%. This year, 53% feel the promise will be kept.
Almost three in five British Columbians who drive their own vehicle (59%) claim it is “very likely” or “moderately likely” the next one they acquire will be electric. This represents a six-point increase since 2021. But only 36% of drivers in northern B.C. are likely to ditch their fossil-fuel-powered car.
Even with heightened awareness about electric vehicles and a high level of agreement with the provincial government’s 2040 goal, there are concerns. The main one is cost, with 59% saying electric vehicles are too expensive. There is a significant component of the population that might be unaware of the assistance existing rebates could bring.
More than half of drivers (54%) also cite a fear of becoming stranded if they cannot find a charging station, and a slightly smaller proportion (50%) worry about not having enough places to charge the vehicle. These fears rise in northern B.C., but are also major concerns for drivers aged 55 and over.
Another drawback is the purported lack of adequate facilities at home. Forty-four per cent say they are less likely to buy an electric vehicle if they do not have a place to charge it where they live.
Finally, the “feel” of the EV is an issue for 13% of drivers.
The survey’s results provide hope to those who envision a future where fossil fuels are no longer as prevalent. Most British Columbians believe the government was right to mandate change. Drivers may be more convinced about buying an electric vehicle than last year, but fears persist.
A successful campaign to convert drivers will need to discuss the places where charging stations are available in specific communities.